Description

This is a professionally reconditioned Toyota CT16V turbocharger, part number 721164 (alternative 17201-27030), for the Toyota Avensis 2.0 D-4D with the 1CD-FTV engine. As a direct-fit replacement part, it has been rebuilt and calibrated in our Birmingham workshop to meet or exceed original manufacturer specifications.

The CT16V is a variable nozzle turbine (VNT) turbocharger, a design that improves throttle response and efficiency across the engine’s rev range. However, this design is also susceptible to specific failure modes, particularly on diesel engines like the 1CD-FTV. The most common issue we see at Gap Turbos is the VNT mechanism becoming clogged with carbon and soot deposits. This causes the internal vanes to stick, preventing them from adjusting the exhaust gas flow correctly. The result is either an ‘overboost’ or ‘underboost’ condition, which triggers the engine management light and often puts the vehicle into a reduced power ‘limp home’ mode. Another known weak point is the electronic actuator, which can fail electrically or mechanically, leading to a complete loss of boost control.

Our comprehensive reconditioning service directly addresses these faults. Each unit is completely disassembled and undergoes an intensive ultrasonic cleaning process to remove all carbon build-up. All service components, including journal and thrust bearings, piston rings, and oil seals, are replaced with new OEM-grade parts. The VNT mechanism is meticulously cleaned, re-assembled, and calibrated on a specialist flow bench to guarantee precise operation. The turbine and compressor wheel assembly is balanced to tolerances finer than the original factory standard. We can recondition your existing turbocharger, supply an exchange unit from our extensive stock, or provide a full fitting service. This can be combined with DPF and catalyst cleaning to address the root cause of carbon issues and prevent a repeat failure.

What this turbocharger fits

• Vehicle: Toyota Avensis
• Engine: 2.0 D-4D (116 HP)
• Engine Code: 1CD-FTV
• Year Range: 2002-2008
• OE Part Number: 721164
• Alternative Part Number: 17201-27030

All our reconditioned turbochargers are supplied with a 24-month warranty. Please contact us with your vehicle’s registration number for an accurate quote and to confirm availability.

Specifications

Vehicle fitment

• Toyota Avensis 2.0 D-4D

Common faults & troubleshooting

• Loss of power and ‘limp mode’: This is the most common symptom, caused by the VNT vanes sticking due to carbon, which results in an overboost or underboost fault code.
• Black smoke from exhaust: Insufficient air from the turbo due to stuck vanes or a faulty actuator leads to rich running and incomplete combustion, producing black smoke under load.
• High-pitched whistling or siren noise: This usually indicates a boost leak in the pipework between the turbo and the engine, but can also signify a damaged compressor wheel or worn bearings.
• Engine Management Light (EML) on: Diagnostic fault codes relating to ‘turbocharger boost control’ or ‘charge air pressure’ point directly to a VNT mechanism or actuator fault.
• Poor fuel economy: If the turbo is not operating efficiently, the engine has to work harder, leading to a noticeable increase in fuel consumption.

Fitting notes for this unit

• Pre-oiling is essential: Before fitting, you must prime the turbocharger by injecting clean engine oil into the oil feed port with a syringe while slowly turning the compressor wheel by hand until oil emerges from the drain port.
• Replace oil feed pipe: We strongly recommend replacing the oil feed pipe. It is a common point for carbon build-up and blockages, which will starve the new turbo of oil and cause immediate failure.
• Use new gaskets and washers: Do not reuse any old gaskets or the copper washers for the oil feed banjo bolt. The supplied fitting kit contains all necessary new parts to prevent leaks.
• Mandatory oil and filter change: Fit a new engine oil filter and fill with the correct grade of fully synthetic oil as specified by Toyota for the 1CD-FTV engine. This is critical for the warranty.
• First start-up procedure: After installation, crank the engine for 15 seconds without letting it start (by disconnecting the fuel pump relay, for example) to build oil pressure to the turbo. Once started, allow the engine to idle for at least five minutes before driving to ensure complete lubrication.

Alternative part numbers

This turbo is also referenced by:

• 17201-27030 — Toyota Turbocharger OEM 17201-27030 (Toyota Avensis 2.0 D-4D, 1CD-FTV, 116hp)

Frequently asked questions